Giuffrida Resigns Job At Emergency Agency

WASHINGTON — Louis Giuffrida, controversial director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, subject of a congressional investigation for alleged fraud, abuse and waste, has resigned, a FEMA spokesman said Wednesday.

Giuffrida, a longtime associate of Attorney General Edwin Meese, submitted his resignation to the White House and it was accepted, said FEMA spokesman Robert Mahaffey. The resignation takes effect on Sept. 1.

A congressional subcommittee last year uncovered allegations of fraud and misconduct during Giuffrida's tenure as head of FEMA.

''Mr. Giuffrida's tenure as head of this important agency has been riddled with controversy, from allegations of misuse of government personnel and property to revelations of waste, fraud and abuse,'' said Sen. Albert Gore, D-Tenn., who headed the congressional panel that investigated the agency.

''His resignation marks the end of a disastrous era for FEMA and brings hope for more competent stewardship,'' the senator said.

Gore said his investigation disclosed that Giuffrida and his executive deputy director, Fred Villella, had approved the illegal construction of a residence on government property for their private use at a cost of more than $170,000 in public funds.

Gore said the subcommittee investigation later revealed instances where Giuffrida would attend expensive political functions and then bill the government for expenses.